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| HQ NEWS |


RFL HONOURED FOR TACKLING HOMOPHOBIC BULLYING WITHIN RUGBY


Rugby League’s work in embracing inclusivity and tackling homophobia has been recognised after receiving the prestigious Stonewall Sports Award of the Year.


The award, which celebrates the impact and contribution of sporting organisations and athletes in breaking down the barriers lesbian, gay and bisexual (LGB) people face, was presented at a gala dinner at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.


The RFL beat off competition from medal winning Team GB Olympian Carl Hester and Paralympian Lee Pearson CBE as well as Claire Harvey, to clinch the award.


‘As a sport we are delighted, honoured and proud that we have been chosen as the winner of the Stonewall Sports Award, particularly given the outstanding field of nominees, including successful Olympians and Paralympians,’ said RFL Equality and Diversity Manager Sarah Williams.


‘The award is the result of four years work by the RFL and the wider sport to engage with LGB communities and to tackle homophobia in sport. This has been a genuine team effort, from our Chief Executive Nigel Wood, former Chairman Richard Lewis, the executive team and staff in


all areas of the business, and, of course our clubs, coaches and players.


‘The RFL and our clubs have been responsible for some truly ground-breaking events; Oldham Roughyeds, Sheffield Eagles and Super League teams Leeds Rhinos and London Broncos have all dedicated games to LGB inclusion, and players like Matt Cook from the London Broncos have made a public stand, saying that homophobia has no place in Rugby League or in any sport for that matter.


‘We have led the way among sports organisations in recent years by introducing the Tackle It! programme, undertaking research into homophobia and launching an education resource to support the Tackle It! campaign and Stonewall’s work to end homophobic bullying.’ added Williams.


Stonewall Chief Executive Ben Summerskill said: ‘The RFL has led the way in tackling homophobia in sport. The commendable work done by the governing body and teams like the Sheffield Eagles and the Leeds Rhinos will help prove that no sport need tolerate homophobia.


‘Gay Rugby League fans across the country will be proud to know that anyone can aspire to join a team and play the game.’


COACHING QUALIFICATIONS SURVEY RESULTS


Over 600 coaches and coach educators who hold a Rugby League coaching qualification were surveyed to find out what was good, and more importantly, what could be better. Take a look at the findings at http://goo.gl/iqkQT


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